2006
Kia
Spectra5

Base Hatchback

Compare Dealer Clearance Prices and SAVE

Review

2006
Kia
Spectra5 Review

A sporty vehicle that offers a plethora of comfort and safety features like the Spectra5 Sedan.

Reviewed by Automotive on
6/3/2006

Overview

The 2006 Kia Spectra5 is a five-door wagon manufactured by Kia Motors America. It belongs to the Spectra lineup of compact sedans. The Spectra5 offers class-leading safety and a host of security features akin to the ones in the popular Spectra Sedan. Kia motors introduced the five-door hatchback wagon variant of the Spectra in order to attract young buyers. A separate Spectra5 model was added to the Spectra lineup in 2005 to replace the Spectra five-door vehicle.

The Range

What's New

Celebrating its third year in the market, the 2006 Kia Spectra5 comes equipped with some refreshing changes and additions. A new four-speed automatic transmission and standard cruise control are offered in the Spectra5.

Exterior

Kia Designers have tried to make the Spectra5 look upscale by introducing some design upgrades. The Spectra5 appears to be more youthful and practical in comparison to its sedan counterpart and looks better than some of its competitors. Built on the same platform and same wheelbase as the Spectra Sedan, the Spectra5 measures 5.5 inches shorter in length than the sedan. It features a sharp crease below the greenhouse and arches at each front fender that gives it a distinctive look. The hatchback has a black mesh grille and fog lamps. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, and side sills add to the youthful appearance of the Spectra5. The vehicle has 16-inch tires.

Interior

Like the Spectra Sedan, the 2006 Kia Spectra5 also has a long list of comfort features. These include interior air filtration, front reading lights, a leather steering wheel, interior air filtration, a cargo-area light, air-conditioning, leather trim on the shift knob, front and rear floor mats, power mirrors, and one-touch power windows. The Spectra5 offers 98.1 cubic feet of passenger room, which is more than what its competitors offer. At 18.3 cubic feet, the cargo capacity offered by the Spectra5 is bigger than its sedan counterpart. The back seat fitted in the 2006 Kia Spectra5 can be folded flat to expand the cargo area. The large rear opening on the 2006 Kia Spectra5 allows for better loading.

Performance & Handling

The Spectra5 comes equipped with a two-liter, four-cylinder engine generating 130 horsepower. The engine produces 136 lb-ft of torque, which proves sufficient for travel in and around town. The 2006 Kia Spectra5 features a four-wheel independent suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, and a MacPherson-strut front suspension that absorbs shocks and offers a comfortable ride despite road irregularities. The drive quality offered is excellent for an economy car. Maneuverability is a strong characteristic of the Spectra5. It offers a fun drive, and drivers do not need to struggle while maneuvering around sharp curves. The gearshift is proficient, like the ones found in sports cars. The lower body and reduced ground clearance make the Spectra5 unsuitable for driving on snow-laden or snow-covered pavements.